Which Toothbrushing Method is the Best?

Abstract

Toothbrushing is a method for preventing and controlling dental caries and gingivitis. Since there are several methods of toothbrushing. This article aims to answer the questions on how to brush for gingival health, and whether the difficult toothbrushing methods are better than the simple ones. The article starts with detailed explanation on twofold benefit of toothbrushing, controlling and preventing dental caries and gingivitis. The article points out that toothbrushing is to get rid of dental plaque at cervical area above gingival line rather than occlusal area. Various toothbrushing methods are presented, followed by research showing the inconsistence among dental organizations on the recommendations. Modified Bass method has frequently been recommended for adults. Children have often been taught to use Scrub method and later changed to Modified Bass. Evidence on behavioral science indicate that changing behaviour in adulthood is difficult. Since there is no difference in the effectiveness among various methods of toothbrushing, a recommendation for public should be simple and practical. Effective toothbrushing for gingival health does not necessarily depend on complex methods. Rather, use any method, brush with light pressure and get to the plaque at cervical area of both buccal and lingual/palatal surfaces of all teethe. Self-check after brushing to see whether dental plaque has been totally removed.